It’s hard not to smile when talking with fitness guru Don-Miguel. Even via e-mail, a penchant for exclamation points telegraphs his enthusiasm for the topic at hand. A passion for physical activity, personal charisma, radiant good health and a vibrant sense of purpose – he’s simply a natural. DallasChild pounced on a rare still moment to find out how Don-Miguel is revving up local kids’ fitness through his Fit-for-Me Foundation.
What drew you into fitness professionally? I have always been involved in fitness/exercise, since I was 7. My fondest memories at that age are of me doing sit-ups, pushups, dumbbell curls and riding our stationary bike. I got into fitness because it was a natural extension of my life. Running track, playing soccer and tennis — I loved the way it made me feel and think. I earned my degree in sports medicine in 1997, just when the fitness was becoming more commonplace.
What sparked your passion for helping kids get fit? My passion for helping kids started when I noticed more and more kids being overweight. Obesity was becoming more of an issue with kids despite race and socioeconomic background, yet the fitness industry was not doing much to address issues with overweight kids. With the help of supporters and my advisors, Fit-for-Me Foundation was started in March 2006.
What is Dallas doing right in the quest to keep our children physically fit? Where are we falling short? Kids’ fitness is surely on the rise in North Texas. There are facilities opening nearly everywhere; however, it may be difficult for all children and families, because it costs to play. Dallas is recognizing the need for all kids to be doing more physical activity, as well as eating right, and is producing a number of kids’ events.
Where does Dallas need to focus its energies right now in terms of getting kids fit? Embrace family and fun family fitness activities, such as the 10th-Annual White Rock-n-Roll 5-Mile Race, May 3 — this event is non-competitive and proceeds benefit the lake. (See www.dallasrunningclub.com for more information or to register.)
Are there any milestones, accomplishments or trends you’ve seen in the past year that you’re especially proud of? Yes, more facilities have emerged that are geared toward developing children’s motor, cognitive and social skills and not focusing strictly on performance. Fit-for-Me is dedicated to its purpose of advancing the fitness and wellness profession, supporting the fitness and wellness industry, championing fitness and wellness causes, and supporting the community by providing resources, subject-matter expertise and education.
Are there aspects of your work with children’s fitness that you find especially challenging? It’s disheartening knowing that the few times I am able to engage in activities with Dallas’ youth might be all the exercise they get for some time. Also, encouraging sponsors to be on the front line with us when obesity is considered an epidemic. Finally, not getting the support from people and organizations in the fitness industry.
Tell us about the most personally rewarding side of your work. What really lights you up? When both parents and kids share with me how much fun they had during our event workshops and training sessions.
How do you balance a very demanding position with personal time? It’s a work in progress, because it’s all personal — and I love what I do! In my downtime, I enjoy running at White Rock Lake, walking around the Dallas Market Center and visiting the Dallas Zoo.
